An effective field scale reservoir model for history matching and reservoir prediction. Part 1. Model architecture and specification

An effective reservoir model concept has been introduced to ensure a practical solution to the history matching problem for a multi-well data set. A deterministic process-based approach to its architecture and specification has been implemented. The common hydraulic element concept is combined with generalised empirically grounded permeability functions for mixed clastic lithology to get a 3D grid containing a reservoir transport property. The clay content constant is used as a universally sensitive control model parameter for specification of absolute and relative permeability distribution for both laterally continuous and discontinuous cases. The power trend functions are used for approximation of inherent lateral distribution of clay content in field scale. Being in close relation with relevant depositional environment they are considered as 'soft' model constraints. The relative sensitivity of model vector components is analysed based on plausible multi-well model examples.